Arsenal fans were left instantly regretting their verdict on VAR after William Saliba scored an all-important equaliser at Fulham on Sunday afternoon.
The Gunners were less than convincing in the first-half at Craven Cottage and found themselves behind thanks to Raul Jimenez's strike. Mikel Arteta's side, who can close the gap on Liverpool today after their match against Everton was postponed on Saturday, came out of the blocks quickly in search of the equaliser.
Less than ten minutes after the interval, the Gunners thought they had found their equaliser when Saliba turned the ball home from close range after a corner was headed down into his path. After the Frenchman had wheeled away celebrating, the celebrations were abruptly cut short as it was announced the VAR was checking the goal for offside.
The announcement was greeted by ironic cheers from the home end and incited outrage among the travelling Gunners. As the check was being made at Stockley Park by John Brooks and Derek Eaton, the verdict from the Arsenal fans was clear.
"F*** VAR," was bellowed from the away end only to be immediately halted as the VAR officials found that Saliba was indeed onside and the goal would stand. As Chris Kavanagh confirmed the decision on-field, the celebrations recommenced, but it was clear the focus now was on finding a winner.
As mentioned, should Arsenal beat Fulham this afternoon, they will move to within four points of the league leaders. Liverpool would have a game in hand on the North London club.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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